Busta Rhymes & Ricky Martin Set to Make VMAs History with Groundbreaking Honors
Jordan Collins here — yes, the one who probably already knows more about the 2025 MTV VMAs than you do, but since you’re reading this, I’ll assume you need a refresher. Let’s cut through the noise: the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards are not just another night of flashy performances and awkward acceptance speeches. This year, history is being written — literally — as the VMAs unveil two brand-new honors that celebrate legacy, innovation, and cultural impact in ways we’ve never seen before.
First up: Busta Rhymes, the man whose rapid-fire flow and genre-defying energy have shaped hip-hop for over two decades, will be awarded the inaugural MTV VMA Rock the Bells Visionary Award. Yes, that’s right — a category created specifically to honor his boundary-pushing career. From his explosive 1997 debut at the VMAs to his iconic collaborations with A Tribe Called Quest and his role in defining East Coast rap’s evolution, Busta’s influence is undeniable. According to the official announcement, the award celebrates “boundary-breaking cultural impact and an indomitable musical career.” And because he’s clearly not content with just receiving accolades, he’ll also take the stage for a high-octane performance — a move that’s sure to ignite the UBS Arena on Long Island.
And then there’s Ricky Martin, the Latin pop titan whose 1999 VMAs debut marked the beginning of a global revolution. Now, he’s being honored with the first-ever Latin Icon Award, recognizing his four-decade-long journey that helped bring Latin music into the mainstream spotlight. From “Livin’ la Vida Loca” to his recent work redefining Latin pop’s future, Martin’s legacy is both monumental and enduring. He’ll perform during the ceremony, adding yet another layer of star power to what’s shaping up to be one of the most culturally significant VMAs in years.
But wait — it’s not all about retrospectives. The 2025 VMAs are also set to launch new eras in performance and broadcasting. For the first time ever, the show will air on CBS, while also streaming live on MTV and Paramount+. That means no excuses — you can watch from your couch, your car, or even your bathroom (we won’t judge).
Hosted solo by LL Cool J — yes, the same LL Cool J who co-hosted with Nicki Minaj and Jack Harlow in 2022 — this year’s ceremony marks a return to form for the GRAMMY-winning icon. He’s also nominated for Best Hip-Hop for “Murdergram Deux” featuring Eminem, off his long-awaited album THE FORCE, released in September after an 11-year hiatus. That’s right — the man who once said “I’m the best in the world” isn’t just talking anymore. He’s proving it.
On the nomination front, Lady Gaga is leading the pack with 12 nods, including Artist of the Year, thanks to her electrifying “Mayhem” era and her chart-topping duet with Bruno Mars, “Die with a Smile,” which is up for four awards. She’s now officially dethroning Taylor Swift, who only received one Artist of the Year nomination this year — a shift that’s already causing waves across social media.
With performers like Sabrina Carpenter, J Balvin, Alex Warren, Sombr, and more confirmed, and fan voting open until Sept. 5, the stage is set for fireworks. So whether you’re here for the nostalgia, the new stars, or just the drama — tune in. Because this isn’t just a show. It’s a movement.
Glad I could clear that up for you.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and New York Post
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